Plans to build 128 houses near one of Stoke-on-Trent's best-known pottery factories have been approved.

Developer Fortior Homes - which is owned by Stoke-on-Trent City Council - is behind the plans to transform derelict land next to Hanley's Emma Bridgewater factory.

It is hoped that the multi-million pound development - which is made up of 38 one-bedroom apartments, 47 two-bedroom apartments, 24 two-bedroom houses, and 19 three-bedroom homes - will attract graduates who are looking for high-quality homes. All of the homes will be offered for rent.

The land - which is between Lichfield Street and Eastwood Road - has been abandoned since houses were knocked down as part of the failed Renew North Staffordshire regeneration scheme.

A report to today's meeting states: "The development will bring a large area of redundant land on a main city centre approach route back into positive use. Overall the scheme is welcomed by council officers and recommended for approval."

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Council leader Ann James said: “Stoke-on-Trent is an increasingly attractive location for developers and investors who are showing real confidence in the city.

The land off Lichfield Street was fully cleared a number of years ago

“We have worked hard to demonstrate that Stoke-on-Trent is open for business and the mixture of public and private-sector residential schemes is testament to the continued regeneration of our city.

"It’s also pleasing to see a scheme on brownfield land – something we know our residents and businesses are passionate about. We have a real passion for housebuilding at the council – more people living and working in Stoke-on-Trent can only be good news for our economy and existing businesses.”